Top Lunch Spots for Fishermen Visiting Lake Marion
Lake Marion is one of South Carolina’s most famous fishing destinations — known for its monster catfish, crappie, bass, and some of the best year-round fishing on the East Coast. Whether you’re here for a tournament, a weekend trip, or a quiet morning on the water, one thing is guaranteed:
After a few hours of fishing, you’re going to be hungry.
Finding a lunch spot that’s fast, fresh, and close to the lake matters — especially for fishermen who want to get back on the water without wasting half the afternoon waiting on food.
If you’re looking for the top lunch spots for fishermen visiting Lake Marion, here’s your local guide — including why Craig’s Deli is the favorite stop for anglers all over the region.
Why Fishermen Need a Different Kind of Lunch
Fishing days are long. You’re hauling gear, launching boats, adjusting rigs, watching the weather, and moving from spot to spot. When lunchtime hits, most anglers want:
- ✔ Food that’s fresh
- ✔ Food that travels well in a cooler
- ✔ Food that won’t get soggy or heavy
- ✔ Food that’s ready fast
- ✔ Food with enough portion size to last the day
Craig’s Deli hits every single one of those.
But before we get into why fishermen love Craig’s, here’s a look at some of the overall lunch options near the lake.
Lunch Options Around Lake Marion
Lake Marion lies between Santee, Elloree, and parts of Summerton. In these areas, you’ll find:
• Small local restaurants
• Gas-station grills
• Fast-food chains near I-95
• BBQ spots
• Golf-course grills
• And of course, Craig’s Deli
All of them serve a purpose — but fishermen don’t want to sit down for a long lunch or wait on cooked-to-order entrées.
That’s why Craig’s Deli stands out.
Craig’s Deli: The #1 Lunch Spot for Fishermen at Lake Marion
Ask around — tournament anglers, locals, and traveling fishermen all say the same thing:
“If you’re fishing Lake Marion, stop at Craig’s before you hit the water.”
Here’s why.
1. Cold Sandwiches That Stay Fresh in a Cooler
Fishermen don’t eat lunch at tables — they eat lunch:
- On the boat
- At the dock
- In the truck
- Between casting at the next spot
Craig’s cold sandwiches are made fresh every day and hold up perfectly in a cooler for hours.
No sogginess.
No wilted toppings.
No dry bread.
Just fresh food that tastes just as good two hours later as it does when you order it.
2. Fast Service (You’re In, Out, and Back To Fishing)
Fishermen don’t want lunch to waste valuable time on the water. Craig’s is:
- Quick
- Efficient
- Made to order
- Run by a team that understands people are on a schedule
You can stop in, grab your lunch, and be at the boat ramp in minutes.
3. Large Portions for Long Days on the Water
Fishing works up an appetite.
The portions at Craig’s are fisherman-approved:
- Thick, piled-high sandwiches
- Generous toppings
- Hearty portions of meats
- Fresh sides that actually fill you up
One good lunch from Craig’s can keep you energized through the afternoon bite.
4. Perfect Location for Every Lake Marion Access Point
Craig’s Deli is right in Santee — minutes from:
- Santee State Park
- Lake Marion boat ramps
- Popular catfishing & bass fishing launch points
- Hotels and rentals used by many anglers
You don’t need to drive out of the way.
Craig’s is right where fishermen pass through anyway.
5. Fishermen’s Favorite Menu Items
The most popular orders among anglers include:
✔ The Classic Club
A hearty sandwich that’s perfect for a long day outside.
✔ Cold Cut Subs
Easy to pack, filling, and made fresh to order.
✔ Chicken Salad Sandwich
Homemade and perfect, chilled in a cooler.
✔ Turkey & Ham Sandwiches
Loaded with toppings, ready for the lake.
✔ Homemade Pasta & Potato Salads
Great sides that hold up well outdoors.
Pair them with a cold drink and maybe a dessert or two, and you’re set for a full day on the water.
Why Fishermen Prefer Craig’s Over Fast Food
Fast food is convenient, but it’s not lake-friendly.
- Hot sandwiches get soggy
- Burgers fall apart
- Fries get cold
- Heavy meals make you sluggish
- Drinks don’t stay cold unless you pack your own
By contrast, Craig’s cold sandwiches are perfect for travel.
They fit perfectly inside:
- Coolers
- Boat refrigerators
- Tackle storage compartments
- Travel bags
Fresh, light enough to avoid the “midday slump,” but filling enough to keep you going.
Perfect for Tournaments, Group Trips & Fishing Weekends
Whether you’re fishing alone or bringing a group, Craig’s Catering makes feeding everyone easy.
✔ Tournament Anglers
Competitive anglers often grab breakfast before launch and lunch for the cooler.
✔ Fishing Clubs & Group Outings
Craig’s can prepare large orders or sandwich platters for groups fishing together.
✔ Weekend Lake Trips
Families, friends, and fishing buddies can all grab lunch and snacks before heading out.
Fishermen’s Tip: Order Ahead for Early Launch Days
If you’re planning to hit the water early, ordering ahead makes it even easier:
- No waiting
- No delays
- Grab-and-go convenience
Craig’s can prep fresh breakfast sandwiches for the morning and cold sandwiches for lunch so you’re fully set.
Your Lake Marion Lunch Starts Here
You came to Lake Marion to fish — not to spend half the day hunting down lunch. Craig’s Deli makes it simple:
- Fresh food
- Fast service
- Convenient location
- Perfect for coolers and boats
- Portions built for outdoor days
That’s why fishermen visiting Lake Marion call it the best lunch stop in Santee.
Fuel up the right way — and get back to doing what you came for: catching fish.